Joaquim Piqueras MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Joan-Carles Carreņo MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Nuria Mayolas, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Veronica Muņoz MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Elida Vazquez MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Javier Lucaya, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The codes of the 'Index for Radiological Diagnoses' of the American College of Radiology (ACR) are a very useful tool for organizing information beyond their use in diagnostic coding. We present several applications that have been developed around standard ACR codes, allowing to improve workflow, eased reporting, examination appropriateness and quality of service.

ACR codes have been integrated in our custom-made radiology information system (RIS) since 1986. ACR codes are used for coding diagnoses and imaging findings and for coding all imaging procedures. Routines for automatic code completion and text to code conversion and code verification were developed; p.e.: typing: thorax, 6, 6., 60. or 60.1 are all converted to 60.11 (routine thorax film)in clerical tasks.

- Text and code shortcuts eased typing introduction of ACR codes at any point of the department. Coding mistakes are avoided even the number of coding people has risen over time Different services improving workflow have been implemented using the anatomic, technical and diagnostic information provided by ACR codes previously given.- We filter examination requests following rules based in the information provided by previous ACR codes: new examinations trigger administrative alarms if they are to close in time, seem to have low appropriateness following previous information, or they are just a repeated examination; pe.: Oncology patients have code patterns like '*.3*'.- Risks bearing patients (immunocompromised hosts, blood-carried diseases) trigger a discreet label allowing to provide better service and safety; code patterns like '6*.25*'- The report templates database has linked ACR codes, allowing offering first the more relevant templates for the exam or projection being reported from the large database of customized reports.

ACR codes convey more than plain diagnostic information that can be used within a RIS or PACS for improving patient care and quality of service and without adding new tasks to busy radiology departments.

Piqueras, J, Carreņo, J, Mayolas, N, Muņoz, V, Vazquez, E, Lucaya, J, ACR Index Codes beyond Coding: Extended Applications in Radiology Information Systems.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4411140.html